Jeff Vahle is president of Walt Disney World Resort, America’s largest single-site workplace. Now in his 35th year with Disney Experiences, Jeff oversees a workforce of approximately 80,000 Cast Members at four theme parks, more than 25 resort hotels, two water parks, a sports complex, a shopping/dining/entertainment district, behind-the-scenes facilities support and much more. The organization he leads has created more than a quarter million jobs throughout the State of Florida.
In the four years since he assumed this role, Jeff and team have opened Tiana’s Bayou Adventure; Journey of Water, inspired by Moana; Tron Lightcycle / Run; Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind; Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure; and new nighttime spectaculars at both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. He has also overseen the renovation of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, refurbishment of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, new Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort—a Disney Vacation Club, expansion of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and the openings of numerous food-and-beverage locations at Walt Disney World parks and resorts, as well as the Disney Springs shopping, dining and entertainment district.
In addition to his duties at Walt Disney World, Jeff oversees Worldwide Safety and Health, Engineering and Sourcing for Disney Experiences worldwide. These teams have as their number-one priority the safety of all who work at or visit Disney vacation experiences around the globe.
Prior to his current roles, Jeff was concurrently the leader of Disney Signature Experiences (which includes Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions and more), and Facilities and Operations Services for Disney theme parks worldwide.
Since starting his Disney career in 1990, Jeff has held various leadership roles instrumental to developing Disney destinations worldwide. These include Disney California Adventure, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Jeff has long been involved in the community and serves on the board of directors at Give Kids the World and the Rollins College Board of Trustees. He is also a member of The Florida Council of 100.
Jeff earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University and a master’s degree in business administration from Rollins College.